The AIP asked the latest Certified Packaging Professional (CPP), Graduate, Babajide Fapojuwo MAIP, CPP, Packaging Specialist from Babstar Packaging a few questions about his career, packaging education and why the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation is so important for the industry…
1. How long have you been in the industry? What are your areas of expertise?
Babajide:
I have been in the industry for more than a decade now, Passionate about driving sustainable packaging solutions and improving existing products through continuous improvement and packaging renovation projects. My area of expertise includes Packaging Design & Innovation, Packaging Optimisation and Material Testing Integrity Tests, Root cause Analysis and Packaging Troubleshooting, Sustainability Initiatives, New Product Development (NPD), Recyclability Analysis & Processes, Supplier Development and Artwork Management. More recently helping new manufactures and start-ups to successfully navigate NPD and portfolio innovation for identifying optimal packaging solutions for their products.
2. What made you apply for the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) Designation?
Babajide:
The Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation for me is a globally recognised certificate that not only evaluates one’s comprehensive understanding of packaging principles but also acknowledges the practical experience, theoretical knowledge and notable accomplishments of packaging professionals in the industry.
3. How important is attaining the CPP designation to you as an individual?
Babajide:
Committing to attain CPP designation is a learning and validation process which demonstrates my passion and dedication to mastering the entire spectrum of packaging expertise. CPP designation has enabled me to build a network of knowledge sharing and collaboration with like-minded professionals staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and sustainability initiatives, which drives innovation, excellence, and growth in the packaging industry.
4. How important is the CPP designation for the greater recognition of people in to the packaging industry?
Babajide:
Holding a CPP designation is essential for greater recognition in the packaging industry, as it validates expertise, demonstrates commitment, and unveils new opportunities for career advancement.
As I previously stated, achieving certification from global packaging authorities enables packaging professionals to establish credibility and reliability, thereby fostering industry trust and confidence in their expertise to develop innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, ensure compliance with global standards and regulations, and provide effective leadership and guidance in packaging projects, ultimately leading to enhanced global sustainability goal and business success.
5. Were there any new learnings or takeaways that you gained from the experience?
Babajide:
This certification process has enhanced my knowledge of packaging technology, offering a wealth of information that has been instrumental in developing various packaging products while maintaining the essential purposes of packaging; protection, preservation, containment, communication, and transportation.
6. What next for your career?
Babajide:
A career is a journey, not a destination and learning is the fuel that drives it.
The packaging industry is experiencing a remarkable era of transformation, driven by exponential growth in research, development, and innovation, and I am thrilled to be an integral part of this dynamic journey. Therefore, I am dedicated to prioritising my professional growth and career advancement through continuous learning, skill enhancement, Global consulting engagements and training initiatives. I am also keen on assisting organisations transition to circular packaging models that prioritise sustainability and environmental stewardship by designing and implementing innovative packaging solutions that drive business growth, reduce waste, minimise carbon footprint, and promote the continuous recycling of materials.